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2010 FIN – Wurth Unveils ‘First’ U.S. Robotic Fastener Forming Facility

The Würth Group is establishing its first hot forming fastener manufacturing facility in North America to supply the growing U.S. wind energy market. Dokka Fastener Inc., located in Auburn Hills, MI, is a state-of-the-art fastener facility featuring a fully automated manufacturing process — something Würth called “the first of its kind in the U.S.”
The $20 million robotic hot forming manufacturing facility will replicate the high-tech process found in the facility of Dokka, Norway — an industry leader in providing wind energy fastener products for over two decades.
The new production center will manufacture high quality bolts from M24 through M72 up to 675 mm in length, as well as studs and threaded rod in sized M16 through M80 and lengths up to 2,300 mm.
Dokka Fasteners Inc. will feature in house heat treat capabilities, giving Dokka control over the quality and integrity of each fastener produced.
“After a highly detailed review of incentives from Illinois, Missouri, Indiana and Michigan, the clear advantage to Dokka was the overwhelming support of the state of Michigan, Oakland County and the city of Auburn Hills,” the company stated. 
“With Michigan developing into an epicenter for wind energy technology and manufacturing, and coupled with the exponential growth of the wind farms through Michigan, Auburn Hills is the ideal location for Dokka Fasteners Inc. to support the North American wind market.”
The new venture will be managed by a team of experienced fastener industry professionals. Marc Strandquist will lead the effort as CEO; Brian Becker will handle sales/marketing; Rob Girdley will direct quality; and Carlos Cham will handle duties as director of materials.
Also joining the management team are director of manufacturing Mike Lafeir, a 25-year hot forging automotive manufacturing executive; CFO Marcel Scheicher, a 20-year financial manager; and Wendy Tichenor as facility manager. Web: dokkafasteners.com  ©2010/2012 Fastener Industry News.